Genoa
- Designer Rüdiger Dorn
- Publisher alea , Ravensburger AG , asmodee , Competo / Marektoy , Filosofia Éditions
- Illustration David Cochard , Franz Vohwinkel
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Genoa, players assume the roles of Renaissance traders moving around the city to acquire goods and fulfill orders. They deliver messages and acquire privileges, with negotiation and deal-making being essential. The flexible rules allow players to negotiate nearly every aspect of the game, making each session dynamic. The goal is to become the wealthiest deal-maker in Genoa.
Who Is This Game For?
Genoa is targeted at experienced players who enjoy strategic negotiation and economic engine-building. Designed for 2 to 5 players aged 12 and up, it takes about 120 minutes per game, requiring patience and strategic planning. Prior experience with complex board games is recommended.
How It Works
The game combines mechanics such as Auction/Bidding, Bribery, Negotiation, and Pick-up and Deliver. Players move on a grid to collect goods and complete orders. Negotiations and deal-making are central to gaining privileges and delivering messages. The flexible negotiation system allows players to negotiate almost all game rules among themselves.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Rüdiger Dorn, Genoa received a 2001 Spiel des Jahres recommendation and placed third in the Deutscher Spiele Preis for Best Family/Adult Game. Part of the Alea Big Box series, it stands out for its deep negotiation mechanics set in a Renaissance theme with a unique mix of auction, bribery, and negotiation.
Awards
2002
2001
- 2010 Vuoden Peli Adult Game of the Year — Nominated
- 2001 Deutscher Spiele Preis Best Family/Adult Game 3rd Place — Nominated
- 2001 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Deep negotiation mechanics allow flexible deal-making
- Thematic Renaissance setting
- Diverse mechanics including Auction, Bribery, and Pick-up and Deliver
- Spiel des Jahres 2001 recommended
Contra
- Relatively long playtime of about 120 minutes
- Complexity requires experience and patience
- Not suitable for families with younger children (12+)
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in Renaissance Genoa, a major Italian port city. Players act as merchants navigating the city to transport goods and fulfill orders within the economic and political context of the period.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the negotiation mechanics and stay adaptable rather than following rigid plans.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Genoa is designed for 2 to 5 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts around 120 minutes, plus setup time.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex strategy games is recommended due to the negotiation and planning involved.
How does this compare to similar games?
Genoa is unique for its flexible negotiation combined with auction and bribery mechanics.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and recommended age of 12+, it is better suited for experienced players than for families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The flexible negotiation mechanic combined with auction/bidding and bribery sets Genoa apart.
Fazit
Genoa is highly recommended for players who enjoy negotiation and strategy games with historical themes and rich player interaction. It offers a challenging experience for those who appreciate long, complex games.
